Tanzania Trip Day 9

Today was our day to learn more about food production in Tanzania. After breakfast, we headed to a farm and food processing plant associated with the University of Sokoine. We started on the Sugeco organic farm.

Half of us weeded among the banana plants using hoes and rakes. The other half worked in the greenhouse turning over bags of compost to prepare them for planting tomatoes. After 45 minutes or so, we switched tasks.

I’m sure we weren’t the fastest workers, but we got some stuff done and learned a little about how they farm - and covered ourselves in deep red clay. After washing up as best we could, we then spent some time learning about and helping at the Kinshasa Foods production.

We took turns making mango juice and pineapple cookies. We developed our skills at peeling, juicing, kneading, rolling, cutting, cooking, and packaging.

We were rewarded with the chance to sample our wares - the cookies were delicious and the juice was heavenly. After all that work, the kids earned a relaxing afternoon at the Nahera Hotel - lunch and swimming and lounging by the pool.

Back to SEGA in time for dinner and showers and group activities. Tomorrow we split up for school shadowing and home visits.